Welsh ambulance chief warns: drink less or risk lives this New Year's Eve

On December 31, 2024, the Welsh ambulance service declared a critical incident due to an overwhelming number of emergency calls. The service reported that approximately 350 calls were waiting to be answered, and many of their vehicles were delayed in handing over patients to hospitals. This situation led to longer waiting times for patients, raising concerns about potential harm to those in need of timely medical assistance. The ambulance service attributed part of the issue to expected high demand during New Year’s Eve festivities, compounded by poor weather conditions that added complications to response efforts. The chief executive of the Welsh ambulance service, Jason Killens, urged New Year’s Eve revelers to drink in moderation and to eat before consuming alcohol. He highlighted the importance of individuals looking after their friends who may drink too much, indicating a communal responsibility during festive periods. Killens explained that the service prioritizes the sickest patients but acknowledged that delays had already impacted the health of some individuals, as they dealt with a record number of life-threatening calls. As part of their recommendations for the New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Welsh ambulance service advised partygoers to consume alcohol responsibly, pre-arrange transportation, and avoid high-risk activities such as using fireworks, which could exacerbate respiratory conditions. These safety measures were issued in an effort to alleviate pressure on the ambulance service during an already critical time and to promote public health. The assistant director of operations, Judith Bryce, noted a significant rise in emergency calls compared to the same period of the previous year. This stress on the ambulance service's resources, which is often exacerbated during winter months due to seasonal illnesses, was particularly acute leading up to New Year's celebrations. The Welsh ambulance service’s proactive approach aimed to reduce the call volume where possible and ensure that emergency healthcare remained accessible for those in dire need.